July 08, 2008

What is Your Body Type, and Why Should You Care?

There is an ancient Ayurvedic philosophy called Tri-Dosha, in which the five elements combine in pairs to form three dynamic forces called doshas (that which changes, governing principles that every living thing is characterized by dosha, type). Through this philosophy one can discover how their particular dosha is effective by these elements, thus create an algorithm to promote wellness within their life.

Why should you continue reading? Much research has been done to the relationship between your dosha and your personal environment. Hence, if you have a good understanding of your dosha mix you can manipulate your environment/the elements for enhanced well-being.

The Three Doshas
The most important variable in researching your body type is to understand what elements bring balance to your life and what elements disrupt your balance. The brief descriptions below can help you discover your body type and how you can effectively achieve balance in your life. You are a combination of two doshas, but one outweighs the other. Understand that throughout life your body type changes between variances of each and you can change your body type slightly, but never the core of your primary dosha.

Vata Dosha: Vata is made up of the elements of space and air. People characterized in the Vata dosha are often thin, slender frame, and prominent joints. They often have high levels of energy. Learn more about the Vata Dosha.

Pitta Dosha: Pitta is made up for the elements of fire and water. People characterized in the Pitta dosha are often of medium proportions, their frame is neither small, nor large, and they often have fine hair. Pitta people are sharp in thought and quite ambitious. Learn more about the Pitta Dosha.

Kapha Dosha: Kapha is made of the elements of water and earth. People characterized in the Kapha dosha have larger proportions, with large frames and are easy going. Kapha people tend to be quite loyal. Learn more about the Kapha Dosha.

Once you learn about your current dosha mix you can then discover those elements that bring balance to your life for optimal wellness.

A great resource that I have used in the past is a book called, Spiritual Nutrition. This book helps you define your body type then defines a habit of eating that best suits you. Read at Google Books.